Railroad Career

Shamonda Jones is a dedicated railroad professional whose career spans more than 25 years in the transportation industry. Her railroad journey began with Norfolk Southern, where a manager encouraged her to become a Tower Operator—an opportunity that sparked a lifelong passion for railroad operations.

Determined to continue growing within the industry, Shamonda joined Metra, where she spent 16 years advancing through a variety of positions, including Crew Caller, Chief Mechanical Clerk, Train Dispatcher, Assistant Chief Dispatcher, Chief Dispatcher, and Senior Manager of Train Operations. While serving as Assistant Chief Dispatcher, she was elected General Chairwoman of the American Train Dispatchers Association (ATDA), advocating for train dispatchers and operational employees.

In 2016, Shamonda received the prestigious Dr. Gary Burch Memorial Safety Award for her work revising a 17-year-old Dispatcher's Manual and incorporating a Power Desk section to improve operational consistency and safety. She was honored with the award at the United States Capitol. Her expertise and leadership have also been recognized nationally through her participation in a National Railroad Hall of Fame video discussing the challenges and opportunities faced by women in the railroad industry.

Today, Shamonda serves as Senior Manager, Dispatching at Metrolink, where she continues to lead with professionalism, innovation, and a passion for safe railroad operations.

NARBW Service

Shamonda joined NARBW in 2018 and became one of the founding members of the Southern California Chapter when it was chartered in 2020. Understanding the vision and potential of the chapter, she quickly became one of its most active leaders and advocates.

Since 2023, Shamonda has served in multiple leadership roles, progressing from member to Vice President and ultimately Chapter President. Her creativity and strategic vision have helped transform the chapter's visibility and growth. She revamped the chapter's website, created its Facebook presence, and developed innovative membership campaigns, including the highly successful Galentine's Membership Drive.

Through her leadership and enthusiasm, NARBW SoCal welcomed 22 new members during February 2024 alone, including 17 members recruited during the Galentine's event. She currently serves as Chair of the 2027 NARBW National Convention, "NARBWland," and continues to support the chapter through leadership, mentorship, fundraising, and community engagement.

Community Leadership

Shamonda's commitment to service extends well beyond the railroad industry. She has volunteered countless hours supporting community organizations and charitable causes throughout Southern California.

She dedicated more than 24 hours volunteering aboard Metrolink's Holiday Express, delighting families while dressed as an elf, reindeer, and Elf on the Shelf. Alongside fellow volunteers, she helped create memorable experiences for passengers of all ages during the holiday season.

Shamonda also co-organized and hosted a charitable golf tournament that raised more than $13,000 for One Simple Wish, helping grant over 175 wishes to children in foster care. She has supported Warriors for Children by donating her time to wrap Christmas gifts for children experiencing trauma and by participating in fundraising events benefiting vulnerable youth.

In addition to her volunteer work, Shamonda became a Certified CPR Instructor and continues mentoring fellow railroad professionals, encouraging women pursuing careers in the traditionally male-dominated railroad industry.

Why She Was Chosen

Shamonda's leadership, dedication, and service have left a lasting impact on both the railroad industry and NARBW SoCal. Whether leading railroad operations, growing chapter membership, mentoring future leaders, organizing charitable events, or serving her community, she consistently demonstrates excellence, integrity, and compassion.

Her tireless commitment to professional development, community service, and the success of NARBW SoCal earned her the distinction of being named NARBW SoCal Woman of the Year in both 2021 and 2024, making her one of the chapter's few two-time recipients of this prestigious honor.

Through her vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment to others, Shamonda continues to inspire women throughout the railroad industry and beyond.